Preliminary Study of Neurosensory recovery after BSSRO

ABSTRACT

inferior alveolar nerve indicated by various degree of numbness of the lower lip and chin is one of the few drawbacks of mandibular osteotomy, especially Bilateral Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy(BSSRO) and genioplasty. Although it has been recorded throughout the history of this techniques, it is true etiology poorly understood. In this study, 22 consecutive patients under class III malocclusiion impression and undergoing orthognathic surgery(BSSRO only 11 case, BSSRO with genioplasty 11 case) were studied using 4 neurosensory test(static light touch, directional discrimination, two-point discrimination, pin pressure nociception) with post OP 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 24 weeks. On control group, 10 members without trauma and nerve damage history, nerve test was accomplished. We concluded majority of patients return of sensation during post operative 24 weeks. Althought immediate nerve deficit are 92.2%, 97.2% 88.9% these are recovered to 25%, 35.72%, 10.71% at 24 weeks. Nerve recovery rate increased prominently between post 4 weeks and 8 weeks. There is no statistically difference about neurosensory deficit among the chin area. Neurosensory deficit more severe when the BSSRO with genioplasty group than the only BSSRO group. Immediate neurosensory deficit is larger left side than right side but after 6 months, there is no significantly difference between left side and right side. Static light touch and pin pressure nociception are more sensitive method of neurosensory deficit than two point discrimination.